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ACADEMICS AT Avondale

Avondale has multiple innovative programs that supplement main required curriculum required by DeKalb County School District and the state of Georgia. These study topics and methods integrate with and enhance academic studies.

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE

The primary principles of IB education, infused into students’ daily interactions are:

  • Inquirers. They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives. University faculties regularly note IB students’ passion for discovery.
  • Knowledgeable. They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines. IB students are extraordinarily well prepared for the academic requirements of university coursework.
  • Thinkers. They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions. IB students contribute to discussions in a meaningful way. They do not shy away from challenging questions and, once they know the answer, follow up by asking “why?”
  • Communicators. They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others. IB students regularly deliver stimulating presentations and drive excellence in group assignments.
  • Principled. They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them. IB students are infused with the academic integrity that is a fundamental value of universities and colleges.
  • Open-minded. They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience. IB students have a deep understanding of various cultures and views, bringing an appreciation of new views to both their academic study and their involvement in local and wider communities. Their international mindedness complements the missions of the best tertiary institutions.
  • Caring. They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment. IB students tell us they bring this commitment to community and others to their activities and leadership roles at university and carry it throughout their lives.
  • Risk-takers. They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs. IB students transition well to challenging university settings and show resilience and determination in their work. In academics, they have the confidence to approach new or unfamiliar subjects or material.
  • Balanced. They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others. IB students are active participants in a wide range of aspects of campus life, as well as focusing on their academic development.
  • Reflective. They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development. IB students have developed an ability to reflect on their learning and to articulate how they learned.

Learn more about International Baccalaureate® programmes here.

STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

At Avondale, Instructor Brenda Walker builds on existing technology and proven methods to challenge students in hands-on project-based STEM inquiry.  AES is a Cognia-certified STEM school.

Avondale’s STEM garden is an oasis of learning in a beautiful setting, yielding a bounty of vegetables and flowers. STEM garden development is supplemented by the hard work of Master Gardener Ms. Langston, Mr. Jacobs, Ms. Siddiqui and community partners.

POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS and SUPPORTS (PBIS)

Avondale students grow and thrive in this safe, consistent support program, which contributes to reduced disciplinary actions and enhances our IB interpersonal values.

Rewards include being allowed to choose prizes and gifts from Avondale’s PBIS Store.

TECHNOLOGY

Avondale students compete in Technology Competitions, under the guidance of Technology Instructor Ms. Starr, and have won top prizes five years in a row.

Computer labs feature multiple PC and Mac computer stations, featuring coding, gaming and design applications. Additional devices include programmable robots and a 3D printer.

DISCOVERY

These gifted students show aptitude in general studies, technical subjects and visual and performing arts through elevated reasoning, intellectual curiosity, problem solving and rapid mastery of facts, concepts, and principles, as well as creative and imaginative expression.

Discovery delivers a program of rigorous instruction at levels that challenge these advanced learners. Students participate in project-based study that follows IB principles.

MUSIC

Sheila Smith introduces students to a variety of instruments and software, and leads a talented group of singers. Many performances throughout the year showcase our Roadrunner performers’ talents.

ART

Under the instruction of Lisa Kemp, students create artworks and crafts that brighten our halls and enlighten our community with paintings, drawings and posters, making Avondale an enchanting environment for learning. Students’ pride in seeing their work displayed is an added benefit.

SPANISH

Señora Leonor Cagle leads a project-based exploration of the application of Spanish. All grades take Spanish during the school year.

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